nucleic acids
3.1 | Synthesis of Biological Macromolecules By the end of this section, you will be able to: Understand the synthesis of macromolecules Explain dehydration or condensation and hydrolysis reactions As youve learned, biological macromolecules are large molecules, necessary for life, that are built from smaller organic molecules. There are four major classes of biological macromolecules carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids ; each is an important cell component and performs a wide array of functions. Combined, these molecules make up the majority of a cells dry mass recall that water makes up the majority of its complete mass . Biological macromolecules are organic, meaning they contain carbon. In addition, they may contain hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and additional minor elements.